Ballon d’Or nomination thrills Tabitha
France-based Malawian female footballer Tabitha Chawinga says she is “super excited” to be nominated for the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or.
The Scorchers captain was one of the two African women footballers who made a list of 30 released on Wednesday evening.
The other is US-based Zambian forward Barbara Banda.
In an interview on Wednesday night, the 28-year-old, said: “I just can’t find the right words, it’s been long time coming.
“God’s time is the best and obviously being the first time, I am super excited.”
On how she rates her chances, the prolific forward, who has started a new lease of life at French champions Olympique Lyon, said: “Most of my fellow nominees have an advantage because of their national teams’ exploits, so I am not expecting much. It’s a step at a time I guess, but I am in there.”
Tabitha, who took the French Women’s top-flight by storm in her debut season in 2023/24 season when she won the golden boot while on loan at Paris Saint Germaine (PSG), said she hopes her nomination will inspire upcoming footballers in the country.
“This should inspire the girlchild that with self-belief and determination, dreams can come true,” she said.
National Women’s Football Association chairperson Adellaide Migogo said Tabitha continues to make the country proud.
She said: “The way she keeps breaking records is amazing. She is a true definition of a superstar and we are proud of her.
“The nomination alone means a lot because to be one of the only two African players to be nominated is no joke.”
Minister of Youth and Sports Uchizi Mkandawire said Tabitha continues to fly Malawi’s flag high.
“It’s incredible and we are so proud of her latest achievement. Looking at how she started her career, I hope it will inspire our girls to be like her,” he said.
In 2022/23 season, Tabitha also won the Italian Women’s Serie A golden boot.
Previously, Tabitha also clinched the golden boot and Footballer of the Year awards in China.
She has been shortlisted for the Confederation of African Footbal Africa Woman Footballer of the Year three times.
She has also been named in Africa, France and Italian team of the year.
